Warp knitting machine



April 21, 1953 F. LAMBACH 2,635,443

WARP KNITTING MACHINE Filed June 29, 1950 7 Sheets-Sheet 1 INVENTOR,FRITZ LAMBACH ATTORNEY 3 4 2 4 t H m S H .y M C Y 2 a T m. M m m M R S VA O 7 W. L W n A w m F m ww M. w m Q w m G mm N m .n my w L n m6 m N I FK mm w P. WI. m & N g m Q WWI Q\ W %m, x m 1 RN l I Mm 2 w ,w l o 1 mi 1& I I mm m s w WE am 9 em MN m 1 9 %& mu 11 m N g m .w NR NW\ n d P e wA m w. v

April 21, 1953 F. LAMBACH WARP KNITTING MACHINE 7 Sheets-Sheet 5 FiledJune 29, 1950 m MA B NM m. W.

2 .H R F ATTORNEY April 21, 1953 F. LAMBACH WARP KNITTING MACHINE 7Sheets-Sheet 4 Filed June 29, 1950 INVENTOR.

FRITZ LAMBACH ATTORNEY April 21, 1953 F. LAMBACH WARP KNITTING MACHINE 7Sheets-Sheet "5 Filed June 29, 1950 FIG. 7.

FIG; IO. 35/ 362a 366a INVENTOR FRITZ LAMBACH a i i i q ATTORNEY April21, 1953 F. LAMBACH WARP KNITTING MACHINE 7 Sheets-Sheet 6 Filed June29, 1950 I N V EN TOR. FRITZ LAM BAC H ATTORN EY April 21, 1953 F.LAMBACH WARP KNITTING MACHINE 7 Sheets-Sheet '7 Filed June 29, 1950 aweIN VEN TOR. FRITZ LAMBACH ATTORNEY Patented Apr. 21, 1953 2,635,443 WARPKNITTING MACHINE Fritz Lambach, Tenafly, N. J assignor to Robert Reiner,Inc., Weehawken, N. J.

Application June 29, 1950, Serial No. 171,051

31 Claims.

The present invention relates to knitting machines, and moreparticularly to warp knitting machines having a plurality of guide bars,each carrying a row of warp guides.

In order to be able to thread warp yar through the eyelets of warpguides carried by the rear guide bar, it is necessary to lift a guidebar or guide bars arranged in front of said rear guide bar.

An object of the present invention is to provide a warp knitting machineequipped with an apparatus for lifting the front guide bar or guidebars, which may be readily operated.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a warp knittingmachine, wherein the mechanism for lifting the front Warp guide bar orguide bars may be operated from any place along the machine, so that forexample in case of warp yarn breakage the attendant may oper-' ate thelifting mechanism from a position'in front of the location of the Warpyarn breakage, wherever said location may be.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a warp knittingmachine equipped with safety devices preventing an operation of the mainmotor of the machine when the liftable guide bar or guide bars are in anelevated position and preventing a not intended lifting of the guide baror guide bars when the main motor is running.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an eflicientelectrical system for the displacing of the liftable guide bar or guidebars of the warp knitting machine.

A further object of the present invention is to provide an electricalsystem for the control of the main motor of the warp knitting machineand of the electrical means for displacing the liftable guide bar orguide bars, which electrical system includes safety means preventing anoperation of the main motor when the guide bar or guide bars are liftedand preventing an operation of the electrical means for lifting of theguide bar or guide bars when the main motor is running.

Another object of the present invention is to improve on the art of warpknitting machines as now ordinarily made.

Other objects and structural details of the in vention will be apparentfrom the following de scription when read in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings forming part of this specification, wherein:

Fig. 1 is a somewhat diagrammatical side elevational view of a warpknitting machine according to the invention, the side wall of themachine being broken away,

Fig. 2 is a sectional view illustrating a portion of the liftingmechanism of a guide bar, said view being taken along line-22 of Fig. 3,and some parts being broken away,

Fig. 3 is agfront elevational view illustrating a portion of the liftingmechanism of a guide bar.

Fig. 4 is a sectional view corresponding to the sectional view shown inFig. 2, wherein, however, the liftable guide bar is in its elevatedposition,

Fig. 5 is a sectional view taken along line 5-5 of Fig. 2,

Fig. 6 illustrates a wiring diagram of an electrical system forcontrolling the main motor and the electrical means for lifting theliftable guide bar of the warp knitting machine shown in Fig. 1,

Fig. '7 is a fragmentary side elevational view of another embodiment ofa war knitting machine according to the invention illustrating thedrives of two separate lifting mechanisms,

Figs. 8-10 are sectional views of a switch for controlling theelectrical drives of the warp knitting machine according to Fig. 7,

Fig. 11 is a vertical sectional view illustrating the upper portion ofthe lifting mechanisms of the warp knitting machine shown in Fig. '7,said machine having two liftable guide bars, and

Fig. 12 illustrates a wiring diagram of an electrical system for thecontrol of the main motor and the electrical devices for lifting theguide bars of the warp knitting machine shown in Figs. '7 and 11.

The drawings illustrate only those parts of a warp knitting machinewhich are necessary for the understanding of the invention. 1

Referring now to the embodiment of a warp knitting machine shown inFigs. 1-5, 20 generally indicates the frame of a warp knitting machinehaving a main electro-motor 22 secured to the frame in any suitablemanner. The main cam shaft 24, journalled in the frame 28 of themachine, may be driven by the electro-motor 22 through the medium of abelt drive generally indicated by 26. A cam 28 keyed to the main camshaft 24 cooperates with a cam follower 30 securedto a shaft 32journalled in the frame 2% of the machine. An arm 34 secured to therockable shaft 32 is in pivotal connection with one end of a link 36,the other end of which is pivoted at 38 with an arm 48 secured to arockable guide bar shaft 42 journalled in bearings of the frame 20.

As shown in Figs. 1-5, a series of brackets generally indicated by 44are fixedly secured in spaced relation to each other to said rockableguide bar shaft 42. Each bracket 44 has a rear downward extension 46 anda front downward extension 48.

In a manner known per se a rear guide bar 50 extending longitudinally ofthe machine and carrying a row of warp guides 52 is secured to a seriesof spaced holders generally indicated by 54, only one holder being shownin the drawings. Each holder 54 has a pair of bars 56 slidably engagedwith hook-like portions 58 of one of the downward extensions 46 of thespaced brackets 44. Said slidable engagement of the holders 54 with thehook-like portions of the downward extensions of the brackets 44 permitsreciprocating displacements of the guide bar 50 in the longitudinaldirection of the machine in dependence on a control by a pattern wheel(not shown). As best shown in Fig. 2, the end 60 of each hooklikeportion 58 is bent in such a way that it prevents the bars 56 of theholder 54 from an upward movement. In other words, the rear guide bar 50cannot be lifted relative to the downward extensions 46 of the brackets44.

As shown in Figs. l-4 a front guide bar 62 carrying a row of warp guides64 and extending longitudinally of the machine is secured in a mannerknown per se to a series of spaced holders 66, only one being shown insaid Figs. 1-4. Each holder 66 has a pair of hook-like portions 10 ofone of the downward extensions 48 of the spaced brackets 44. Theslidable engagement of the holders 66 with the downward extensions 48 ofthe spaced brackets 44 permits reciprocating movements of the guide bar62 in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the machine independence on the control 'by the pattern wheel (not shown).

As best shown in Figs. 2 and 4, the hook-like portions I of the downwardextension 48 of each bracket 44 are open at the top, so that the holder66 together with the front guide bar 62 attached thereto may be liftedto a certain extent.

For the performance of such a lifting of the front guide bar 62 relativeto the bracket 44 and the rear guide bar 50 the following mechanism isarranged in the machine:

A lifting element 12 arranged adjacent the front downward extension ofeach bracket 44 is provided with two longitudinal slots I4 slidablyengaged with bolts I6 inserted into bores I8 of the front downwardextension 48 of the bracket 44. Each lifting element I2 has a liftinghook 80 which may come into engagement with the upper bar 68 of theholder 66, when the lifting element I2 is elevated in a manner to bedescribed hereinafter. When the front guide bar 62 is in its loweroperating position shown in Fig. 2, the engaging surface 82 of thelifting hook 80 is at a distance from the lower edge of the upper bar 68of the holder 66. Furthermore, when said lifting element 12 is in itslower position shown in Fig. 2, a lug 84 projecting therefrom is inengagement with the upper edge of the upper bar 68 so as to prevent anundesired lifting of the holder 66 during a reciprocating movement ofthe front guide bar 62 during the operation of the machine.

As best shown in Figs. 2, 4 and each lifting element carries a roller 86in engagement with a recess 68 of an arm 90 keyed to a rockable liftershaft 92 extending longitudinally of the machine and being journalled inbearings 94 (see Fig. 5) of the spaced brackets 44. An arm 96 is keyedto said lifter shaft 92 at a suitable place. The left-hand end of thearm 96 (as viewed in Figs. 1, 2 and 4) is provided with a. slot 98 forpivotal and slidable engagement with the upper end of a-connecting rodI00. The lower end of said connecting rod I00 is pivoted to the arm I02of a lever generally indicated by I04 (see Fig. l) and keyed to a shaftI06 journalled in suitable bearings of the frame 20 of the machine. Theother arm I08 of said lever I04 is arranged for cooperation with theabutting surfaces H0 and H2 of a stop II4 secured to the frame 20 of themachine. A lug H6 carried by the arm I08 of the lever I04 is arrangedfor cooperation with a spring-loaded plunger of a safety switch II8mounted on the structure of the stop H4 and electrically connected withthe main motor 22.

A sprocket gear I20 keyed to the rockable shaft I06 is operativelyconnected by means of a chain I22 with a sprocket gear I24 keyed to theshaft I26 of a reversible torque motor I28. The reversible torque motorI28 mounted on the frame 20 of the machine may be operated by means of ashipper rod I30 extending longitudinally of the machine and beingjournalled for manual rocking movements in suitable bearings of theframe of the machine. The shipper rod I30 acts through an arm I32 on theplunger of a torque motor selector switch I 34 electrically connected ina manner to be described hereinafter with the reversible torque motorI28. Preferably, means (not shown) are provided for holding the shipperrod I30 in a set position.

A second shipper rod I36 extending longitudinally of the machine andbeing journalled in the frame 20 of the latter is arranged for actuatingthrough an arm I 38 selectively on a starter switch I40 and a stopswitch I42 electrically connected with the main motor 22 of the machinein a manner to be described hereinafter.

Figs. 1. 2 and 3 illustrate the lifting mechanisms 26, 04, I00, 96, 90,12 and the front guide bar 62 in a position ready for operation of themachine. The warp yarns I44 supplied by the lower warp beam or beams I46are threaded through the eyelets of the warp guides 52 carried by therear guide bar 50. The warp yarn I48 supplied by the upper warp beam orbeams I50 are threaded through the eyelets of the warp guides 64 carriedby the front guide bar 62. When upon actuation of the starter switch I40by the shipper rod I 36 the main motor 22 is energized, the guide barshaft 42 is oscillated through the drive 26, 28, 30, 34, 36, 40, wherebythe bracket 44 carrying the warp guides 50 and 62 are likewiseoscillated. Said oscillating movement of the brackets 44 results in anoscillating movement of the arm 96 relative to the connecting rod I00,which is taken up by the slot arranged in said arm 96.

Now, when upon stoppage of the main motor 22 by an actuation of the stopswitch I42 by means of the shipper rod I36 the machine is stopped, thereversible torque motor I20 may be caused by an actuation of the torquemotor selector switch or actuating switch I34 by means of the shipperrod I30 to rotate in counterclockwise direction (arrow A shown in Fig.1). Said rotation in counterclockwise direction will result in adownward movement of the connecting rod I00 in the direction of thearrow B, until the arm I08 abuts against the surface II2 of the stopIII. The torque motor I28 remaining under current holds said arm I08against said abutment I I2; at the same time the lug I I6 opens thesafety switch II8 whereby in a manner to be described hereinafter, thecircuit of the main motor 22 is interrupted.

Said downward movement of the connecting rod I00 in the direction of thearrow B causes a rocking of the lifter through the medium of the arm 96'in counterclockwise direction (arrow shown in Figs. 2 and 4), wherebyeach arm 90 associated with a lifter element 12 is moved upwardly fromthe position shown in Fig. 2 into the position shown in Fig. 4. Saidupward movement of the arms 90 results in an upward movement of theassociated lifter elements 12 from the position shown in Fig. 2 into theposition shown in Fig. 4. As soon as the surface 82 of the lifting hook80 arranged on each lifter element 12 comes into engagement with theup-.

the front guide bar 62 may be lowered again,

For this purpose the torque motor selector switch I34 is actuated by theshipper rod I30 in such a manner that it causes the reversible torquemotor M8 to rotate in clockwise direction (arrow D) shown in Fig. 1,whereby the connecting rod )0 is lifted in the direction of the arrow Euntil the arm I08 of the lever I04 abuts against the surface H0 of thestop H4. The torque motor 128 remaining under current holds said arm I08against said abutment H0. At the same time the spring loaded plunger ofthe safety switch H8 following the lug H6 carried by the arm 08 causesthe closing of said safety switch H8 arranged in the circuit of the mainmotor 22. When the connecting rod I00 is lifted in the direction of thearrow E, the lifter rod 92 is rocked in clockwise direction (arrow Fshown in Figs. 2 and 4), so that the arms 93 carried by said liftershaft 92 are returned from the position shown in Fig. 4 into theposition shown in Fig. 2. Said downward movement .of the arms 90, inturn, results in a downward movement of the lifter element 72 fromtheposition shown in Fig. 4 into the position shown in Fig. 2, wherebylikewise the front guide bar 62 carrying the warp guides 34 is returnedfrom its upper inoperative position shown in Fig. 4 into its loweroperative position shown in Fig. 2. A spring-loaded bolt I52 (Figs. 2and 4) carried by each bracket 44 cooperates with a lug 1 54 of theassociated lifter element 12 so as to push same downwardly, if acompensation for the play caused by the slot 98 receiving the upper end.of.

the connecting rod I08 should become necessary.

The electric control system for the main motor 22 and the torque motoror auxiliary motortl23 arranged for lifting and lowering the front guidebar 62 is illustrated in Fig. 6.

A prime circuit, for instance a polyphase circuit 300 is provided thatis interconnected to a network 302 fed by an electric source (notshown). The prime circuit 333 has terminals for interconnection to themain motor 22, and has a spring-loaded main switch 334 for connectionand disconnection of said main motor. The torque motor l28 admits alsoof interconnection to the prime circuit 300, at one polarity foroperation in one direction to lift the front guide bar 62, and atanother polarity for operation in the opposite direction to lower saidfront guide bar 62. For this purpose, there are provided in the primecircuit 300 a springloaded first or lifting, switch 306 and a'springloaded second or lowering switch 308. 7 o v Each of the switches 304,306and 308 of the prime circuit 333 is provided with a solenoid, the mainswitch304 having a solenoid 3), the lifting switch 306 having a solenoid3l2 and the lowering switch 308 having a solenoid,3l4.

The connections between the prime circuit 300 and the terminalsassociated with the blades of the lifting switch 303 and lowering switch308 are so arranged, as best shown inFig. 6, that both switches arebiased by springs into lower, open position and actuate the reversibletorque motor i2ii in the assigned direction of rotation for lifting orlowering the front guide bar 62 by the raising of a switch into upper,closing position under impulse of solenoid action of the solenoids 3l2and 3 l 4, respectively.

The main switch 33 is normally held by its spring in open position tode-energize the main motor 22, and is closed by means of energization ofits solenoid 358. A starter circuit, generally indicated at 396, isinterconnected to two of the phase leads of the prime circuit 300, andis interconnected in series to the coil of the solenoid MG, and also tothe spring-loaded safety switch H8, to the spring-loaded stop switch M2,and to the spring-loaded starter switch I40. The safety switch H3 andthe stop switch M2 are normally held by their springs in closedposition, while the starter switch MB is normally held by its spring inopen position. The starter circuit 3H6 also includes a holding circuit318 that cooperates with a shunt member 320 of the main switch 304 thatmoves therewith, and which acts to bridge the starter switch MB afterthe main switch 334 has been actuated.

There is provided a spring-loaded control switch 322 that carries asolenoid 324, and the coil of said solenoid 324 is interconnected inseries in a control circuit 326 that is arranged in parallel with thesolenoid 3 Iii of the main switch 334 and thereby in parallel with aportion of the starter circuit 3 i 3. Therefore when current flowsthrough the starter circuit 3H5, it will also energize the controlcircuit 326, and thus the solenoids 3N! and 324 of the main switch 334and the control switch 322, respectively, will operate simultaneously toraise and lower (with respect of Fig. 6) these two switchessimultaneously.

The control switch or safety switch 322 having two blades 334 and 33B isnormally pressed by a spring 332 into the position shown in Fig. 6,wherein its blade 33% bridges terminals in a line of a lifting circuit323 interconnected in series to the coil of the solenoid 3I2 of thelifting switch 336 and to two leads of the polyphase prime cirouit 333.The terminals 321, 329 in said lifting circuit 323 may be bridged by thetorque motor selector switch 535 when the latter is brought by a rockingmovement of the shipper rod 133 in clockwise direction (as viewed inFig. 6) from its lower position shown in Fig. 6 into its upper endposition. As will be readily understood, only if the machine is at astandstill, and, consequently, the control switch or safety switch 322is inits pre-setting position shown in Fig. 6 wherein it closes thelifting circuit by its blade 334, a movement of the selector switch E34into its upper upon a start or the main motor 2'2 and energize. tion ofthe solenoid '324 of the control switch 322 the latter is raised fromits lore-setting position shown in Fig. 6 into its holding position,wherein its blade 334 interrupts the lifting circuit 328 and its bla'de336 closes a holding circuit 338 connected to a lowering circuit 330 tobe described hereinafter, the lifting switch 306 cannot be closed by amovement of the torque motor selector switch or actuating switch I34from the position shown in Fig. 6 into its alternate position wherein itbridges the terminals 327, 329 of the lifting circuit 328.

In the position shown in Fig. 6, the blade of the selector switch I34bridges the terminals 33I 333 01' the lowering circuit 330interconnected in series to the coil of the solenoid 3 I4 of thelowering switch 308 and to the same two leads of the prime circuit 300as the lifting circuit 328 (same lines being common to both circuits)Thu's,'when the machine is at a standstill and, consequently, thecontrol switch 322 is in the position shown in Fig. 6, the loweringcircuit 330 is closed when the selector switch I34 is in its lowerposition shown in said Fig. 6, whereby the solenoid 3I4 of the loweringswitch 308 is energized, thereby closing the latter for an energiz'ationof the reversible torque motor I28 to lower the front guide bar 62,until the arm I08 (Fig. 1) of the lever I04 abuts against the abutment II of the stop I I4, whereupon the torque motor holds said guide bar 62in its lower operative position.

Upon a start of the motor 22, the solenoid 324 of the control switch orsafety switch 322 is energized and the latter is brought from its lowerpre-settin'g position shown in Fig. 6 into its upper holding positionwherein it interrupts the lifting circuit 328 at 334 and closes theholding circuit 338 by its blade 336 as mentioned above. Therefore, ifduring the operation of the machine the selector switch I34 should causea disconnection of the terminals 33I, 333 by an unintentional movementof the shipper rod I30 in clockwise direction, the holding circuit 338closed b the blade 336 of the control switch 322 and connected with thelowering circuit 338 will permeate the holding down action of the torquemotor I28 on the front guide bar 62 against the abutment IIO of the stopI I4.

When the selector switch I 34 is in its lower position shown in Fig. 6wherein it bridges the terminals 33I, 333 of the lowering circuit 330and disconnects the terminals 321, 329 of the lifting circuit 323, thelowering switch 308 is in its active or closing position for lowering ofthe guide bar or holding same down by the torque motor I 28, while thelifting switch 306 is in its inactive open position.

When the selector switch I 34 is in its alternate upper position whereinit bridges the terminals 321, 329 of the lifting circuit 328 anddisconnects the terminals 33I 333 of the lowering circuit 330, thelifting switch 306 is in its active or closing position for lifting theguide bar by the torque motor I28, while the lowering switch 308 is inits inactive position, provided, however, that the machine is at astandstill and the control switch 322 is in its presetting positionshown in Fig. 6. If the machine is running and the control switch 322 isin its holding position wherein it interrupts the lifting circuit 328 at334 and closes the holding circuit 338 at 336, a movement of theselector switch I34 into said alternate position has no influence on thelifting switch 306 which remains in its inactive open position while thelowering switch 308 is held in its active closing position.

As will be understood from above, the control system includes threesafety features: Firstly, the safety switch II8 prevents an operation ofthe warp knitting machine by the main electromotor 22 when the frontguide bar 62 is in its raised inoperative .position. Secondly, thecontrol switch or safety switch 322 prevents a lifting of the frontguide bar 62 when the main motor 22 drives the machine. Thirdly, thecontrol switch or safety switch 322 causes a holding down of the frontguide bar 62 if, for any reason whatsoever, at the beginning of themachine operation by pressing the starter switch I40 the selector switchI34 is not exactly in its lower closing position shown in Fig. 6, or if,during machine operation the shipper rod I30 is unintentionally rockedcausing a slight displacement of the selector switch I34 out of saidlower position shown in Fig, 6.

The operation of the warp knitting machine according to Figs. 1-5equipped with a control system shown in Fig. 6 is as follows:

Assume, the warp yarns are properly threaded and the front guide bar 62is in its lower operative position shown in Figs. 1-3.

The operator will momentarily rock the shipper rod I36 actuating thestarter switch I40 whereby the starter circuit 3 I6 and the controlcircuit 826 will conduct current, thereby energizing the solenoids 3I0and 324 of the main switch 304 and of the control switch 322,respectively. The holding circuit 3I8 of the starter circuit 3I6 willpermeate this condition (until it is interrupted by the operatorpressing the stop switch I42). In this condition, the knittingimplements I60 of the machine will be driven by the main motor 22 forthe manufacture of fabric NH, and the comtrol switch 322 will be in itsholding position wherein the lifting circuit 328 is interrupted at 334and the holding circuit 338 is closed 'at 336 so that the loweringswitch 308 is held in its closing position and the torque motor I23 isheld in energized condition for holding the front guide bar 62 in itslower operative position, even if an unintentional rocking of theshipper rod I30 by the operator occurs which results in a disconnectionof the terminals 33I, 333 by the selector switch I34.

When a warp yarn breakage occurs, the operator stops the main motor 22by rocking the shipper rod I36 in the opposite direction causin anactuation of the stop switch I42. Now, the control switch 322, due tothe deenergization of its solenoid 324, is in its pro-setting positionshown in Fig. 6. In this .pre-setting position, the lifting circuit 328is pre-set for completion by the selector switch I34 in one positionthereof.

Now, when the operator, standing in front of the place of warp yarnbreakage, rocks the shipper rod I 30 for moving the selector switch I34into the position wherein it bridges the terminals 321, 323 so as toclose the lifting circuit 328, the lifting switch 306 is brought intoits upper closing position for energizing the reversible torque motorI28 so as to rotate in the direction of the arrow A for lifting thefront guide bar 62 into its inoperative position. At the same time thesafety switch H8 is automatically opened, so that the main motor 22cannot be started by an erroneous rocking of the shipper rod I36actuating the starter switch I40. The torque motor holds the front guidebar 62 in its inoperative raised position permitting repair of a brokenwarp yarn and threading thereof through an eyelet of a original positionfor returning the selector switch I34 into the position shown in Fig, 6,wherein it bridges the terminals 33L 333 for closing the loweringcircuit 330. Thus, the lowering switch 308 is brought into its upperclosing position for energizing the reversible torque motor 128 so as torotate in the direction of the arrow D for lowering the front guide bar02 into its operative position and thereafter holding same in saidoperative position. At the same time, the springloaded safety switch H8is automatically closed, so that the starter circuit 318 is 'againcompleted for a restarting of the main motor 22 by closing the starterswitch I40 as described above.

It may be noted that owing to the arrangement of the torque motor I28controlled by the shipper rod I30 extending from end to end of themachine the operator may cause the lifting and lowering of the frontguide bar 62 without leaving his position in front of the place wherethe warp yarn breakage occurred. The lifting and lowering of the guidebar 62 requires merely a rocking of the shipper rod I30 which may bereached at any place.

According to the embodiments shown in Figs. 7-11 the warp knittingmachine is equipped with three guide bars 50a, 62a and IBM extendinglon- 'gitudinally of the machine. Again a series of spaced brackets 44a.is secured to the rockable guide bar shaft 52a, each bracket havingthree downward extensions 46a, 48a and Nita. The holder 54a carrying therear guide bar 50a is slidably engaged with the downward extensions 46aof the brackets 44a in the manner as described above in connection withthe holder 54 of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1-5. Therefore, theholder 54a and the rear guide bar 50a cannot be lifted. The holder 66acarrying the intermediate guide bar 62a is slidably engaged with thedownward extensions 48aof the brackets 44a and the holder [66a carryingthe front guide bar IBM is slidably engaged with the downward extensions[64a of the brackets 44a in the manner as described above in connectionwith the holder 66 of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1-5. Therefore, theholder 66a with the intermediate guide bar 62a as well as the holderI660 with the front guide bar 52a are liftable.

The linkage 90a, 96a, la connected with the lifting elements lZaassociated with the holders 66a correspond to the linkage 90, 96, I00described above in connection with the embodiment shown in Figs. 1-5. Asshown in Fig. 7, the lower end of the connecting rod 100a is pivoted tothe arm mm of a double-armed lever l04a secured to a shaft Mia. Theother arm 100a of the double-armed lever l04a cooperates with abutmentsHM and H20. of a stop 4a, secured to the frame 20a of the machine. A lugIIBa carried by the arm l08a cooperates with a safety switch I68amounted on the stop ll la and electrically connected with the main motor22a driving the knitting implements of the warp knitting machine. Thelinkage 100a, 90a, 96a may be actuated by means of a reversible torquemotor 110a connected with the shaft 10611 through a chain drive H2 11.The spring-loaded safety switch "58a is automatically opened when thelinkage 1001; is actuated for lifting the intermediate -guide bar 82owith its warp guides 6411 into the, elevated inoperative position 62a,64a shown in dash-and-dot lines in Fig. 11; on the other hand thespring-loaded safety switch ISBa is automatically closed as soon as thelug llBa returns into the position shown in Fig. 7, and, consequently,the intermediate guide bar 62a. is again in its lower operative positionshown in fulllines in Fig. 11.

As shown in Fig. 11, each lifting element 114a associated with aliftable holder 58a carrying the front guide bar Him is pivotallyconnected with the lower end of a link ll6a the upper end of which ispivoted to an arm IlB-a secured to a lifter-shaft la journalled inbearings of the brackets 44a. An arm [82a fixedly secured to said liftershaft IBM is pivotally and slidably engaged at IBM with the upper end ofa connecting rod 18601.. As shown in Fig. '7 the lower end of saidconnecting rod 36a is pivotally connected with the arm i88a of adouble-armed lever l90a secured to a shaft l92a journalled in the frame20a. The other arm [94a of said lever 190a is arranged for cooperationwith abutments l96a and [98a of a stop 200a. mounted on the frame of themachine. A lug 202a. arranged for cooperation with the spring-loadedplunger of a'safety switch M811 is carried by the arm 194a of the leverl90a. The safety switch 1 I80. mounted on the stop 200a is electricallyconnected with the main motor 22a. A sprocket gear 204a. keyed to theshaft 1920!, may be rotated in counterclockwise and clockwise directionby means of a reversible torque motor IZBm mounted on the.

frame of the machine and connected. with said sprocket gear 204a. bymeans of a chain 206a.

As will be readily understood, when the torque motor [23a is switched onfor rotation in counterclockwise direction (arrow G in Fig. 7), theconnecting rod l86a. is moved downwardly in the direction of the arrow Hwith the results, that the arm 118a, the lifting elements IMa, theholder I660. and the front guide bar I620. with the warp guides 208amounted thereon are elevated into the lifted positions I'IBa, I'Maf,l60a', 162a and 208a, respectively. The downward movement of theconnecting rod 186a is limited by an abutment of the arm l94a againstthe surface l98a of the stop 200a. The torque motor IZBa holds the guidebar [62a in its inoperative elevated position l62a/ as long as it isenergized for rotation in the direction of the arrow G. The lug 202aholds the safety switch 812. in open position.

When thereafter the torque motor l28a is en-' ergized for rotation inclockwise direction (arrow K shown in Fig. 7), the connecting rod I86ais lifted in the direction of the arrow L until the arm I940. abutsagainst the surface I96a of the stop 200a, whereby the front guide bar|62a is returned into its operative position shown in full lines in Fig.11. As long as the torque motor 128a. is energized for rotation in thedirection of the arrow K it holds the front guide'bar [66a in its lowerinoperative position. Upon return of the arm Ma and the lug 202a.mounted there,- on into the lower position shown in Fig. 7, thespring-loaded safety switch I I8a is automatically closed.

As will be described hereinafter the operation of the torque motors I231and a actuating the linkages for lifting and lowering the front guidebar l62a and intermediate guide bar B Za is controlled by a torque motorselector switch e a tue ne sw h We, h h u n ma be actuated by a manualrocking of a Shipper rod a. extending longitudinally of the machine. Asecond shipper rod [36a extending longitudinally of the machine isarranged for actuation of a starter switch 142a electrically connectedwith the main motor 22a for starting and stopping the operation of thelatter. The electrical control system used in conjunction with a warpknitting machine having three guide bars according to the embodiment ofFigs. 7-11 is as follows:

Both torque motors or auxiliary motors l28a and Illla are controlled bythe single three-way selector switch I34a.

Similar to the previously described embodiment there is again provided aprime circuit 300a interconnected to a network 302a, a main switch Illathat actuates the main motor 22a; there is again a starter circuit 3160.that has, however, in series not only one safety switch, but twospring-loaded safety switches 8a and 1580., operated respectively, bythe levers l90a and Illa (Fig. 7) of the lifting mechanisms connectedwith the torque motors IZBa and IHla (Figs. '7 and 12). Thespring-loaded starter switch I la and the spring-loaded stop switch 2aare arranged in the starter circuit SIM, and there is also provided aholding circuit 3l8a cooperating with a shunt member 320a of the mainswitch 304a to hold the starter circuit 3l6a closed. A control switch322a is again energizable by a control circuit 326a that is arranged inparallel with the coil of the main switch solenoid 3l0a.

A control switch or safety switch 322a has a solenoid 324a in serieswith the control circuit 326a and is provided with a tension-spring332a, and three blades, a lower blade 334a, a middle blade 336a and anupper blade 331a. Each of the torque motors is provided with a liftingswitch and with a lowering switch, for interconnection of each torquemotor, at selectively alternate running directions, to the prime circuit"0a. The torque motor l28a associated with the front guide bar IBM isprovided with a lifting switch 306a and a lowering switch 308a havingsolenoids 312a and 3|4a respectively; and the torque motor I'Hlaassociated with the intermediate guide bar 62a is provided with alifting switch 301a having a solenoid 3 [3a, and alowering switch 309ahaving a solenoid 3 I 5a.

A lifting circuit 328a and a lowering circuit 380a are again providedand are interconnected to the switches of both torque motors, and theselector switch l34a is so arranged in the circuits that it canalternately switch to lifting and lowering of the liftable guide bars.On lifting, the torque motor l28a is operated first, so that the frontguide bar |52a is lifted first, whereas on lowering, the torque motor I28a and consequently the guide bar 52a are operated last.

A holding circuit 338a again is provided to hold the lowering circuit330a closed when the machine is running and the control switch 322a isin its holding position wherein its middle blade 336a closes saidholding circuit 338a and its upper blade 331a bridges the terminals 340aand 342a of the lowering circuit 330a, so that upon an unintentionaldisconnection of the terminals Illa, 333a and 344a and Ba of thelowering circuit 330a by the selector switch [34a the lowering circuit330a remains closed and the front and intermediate guide bars 211 and62a are held in their operative positions by the torque motors I2Ba and110a. Furthermore, when said control switch 322a is in said holdingposition, it intermpts the lifting circuit 328a at 334a to pre- 12 ventguide bar lifting while the machine is runnmg.

On the other hand, when the machine is at a standstill and the controlswitch 322a is in its pre-setting position shown in Fig. 12, its lowerblade 334a closes the lifting circuit 328a, while its middle blade 336ainterrupts the holding circuit 338a and its upper blade 331a interruptsthe lowering circuit 330a.

As in the previous embodiment, the switches for the torque motors are soarranged in the prime circuit 30011 as shown in Fig. 12. that the motorsare connected at one polarity during lifting switch operation, tooperate in the guide bar lifting direction, and at changed polarityduring lowering switch operation to operate in an opposite direction forguide bar lowering.

A first bridge 362a of the selector switch I340 is arranged forcooperation with the terminals 3am and 333a of the lowering circuit 330afor the lowering switch 308a of the first torque motor I 28a and forcooperation with terminals 821a, 32911 of the lifting circuit 328a forthe lifting switch 306a of the same torque motor Ilia A second bridge366a oi said selector switch 1340 is arranged for cooperation with theterminals 344a and 346a of the lowering circuit 330a for the loweringswitch 309a of the second torque motor llfla and for cooperation withterminal: 352a, 354a of the lifting circuit 32841 for the lifting switch301a of the same torque motor a.

As shown in Figs. 7-12, the selector switch I341: comprises an arm 356athat is mounted about midway of its length on the shipper rod a, and isrockable by the shipper rod in opposite directions. An adjustable screw358a is mounted near one end of the arm, and another screw 880a ismounted near the other end of the arm.

The first bridge 362a of the selector switch ifla is movably arrangedopposite one of the arm ends and is arranged to interconnect theterminals 33 la and 333a in one position (see Fig. 8 and to interconnectthe terminals 321a and 329a in the second position, (see Fig. 9 and ispressed to- Wards said second position by a spring 364a.

The second bridge 365a of the selector switch |34a is movably arrangedopposite the other end of the arm 356a, and is arranged to interconnectin one position the terminal 344a with the terminal 346a (see Fig. 8),and to interconnect the terminal 352a with the terminal 3541: in itssecond position (see Fig. 10), and is pressed into said first positionby a spring 368a. Each bridge carries a projection for operation by ascrew of the arm 358a, the bridge 362a being operated by the screw 358a,and the bridge 366a being operated by the screw 369a.

Thus, when the arm 356a is in the position shown in Fig. 8, theterminals 33|a and 333a are interconnected by the bridge 362a under theaction of the screw 358a, whereby the lowering switch 308a of the torquemotor l28a is actuated for lowering the front guide bar 152a into itsoperative position or holding same in the latter respectively. In thisposition, the other screw 360a releases the second bridge 366a and thelatter is pressed by the spring 368a to make contact with the terminals344a and 346a, to close the lowering switch 309a of the torque motorI'Hla for lowering the intermediate guide bar 62a into its operativeposition, or holding same in the latter respectively. This may be termedthe first position.

A second position is shown in Fig. 10, where the arm 356a is rocked sothat both bridges are released by the screws and are both under actionof the springs 364a and 368a, respectively. In this second position,when the control switch 322a is in its pre-setting position (shown inFig. 12), the lifting switch 368a of the torque motor 128a is operatedfor lifting of the front guide bar 552a, and the lowering switch 309a ofthe other torque motor ilta is still operated for holding theintermediate guide bar 62a in its operative position.

In a third position, illustrated in Fig. 10, the arm 35511 is rocked inposition for operation of the bridge 36% by the screw 360a against thepower of the spring 368a, and the bridge 35211 is' under action of thespring 33412. This connects both lifting switches 308a and 399a to theelectric source, when the control switch 322a is in its presettingposition of Fig. 12, and the front guide bar 32a as well as theintermediate guide bar 62a are thus lifted.

The shipper rod l3ila may be held in each of said three positions shownin Figs. 8-10 by means of a suitable device. For example, the shipperrod I30a may be rigidly connected with an index disc having threerecesses for cooperation with a spring-loaded holding member capable ofengagement with one recess or another.

The operation of a warp knitting machine according to Figs. 7-11equipped with an electric control system shown in Fig. 12 is as follows:

Assume, the warp yarns are properly threaded and the front guide bar 52aas well as the intermediate guide bar 62a are in their lower operativeposition shown in full lines in Fig. 11.

Upon actuation of the starter switch Mile, the main motor 22a drives theknitting implements IBM of the machine. At the same time the controlswitch or safety switch 322a is brought into its holding positionwherein its blade 334a interrupts the lifting circuit 328a and itsblades 335a and 337a close the holding circuit 338a and the loweringcircuit 330a respectively.

When a warp yarn threaded through an eyelet of a Warp guide B ta carriedby the intermediate guide bar 62a breaks, the operator stops the mainmotor 22a by an actuation of the stop switch I420, by means of a rockingof the shipper rod l36a, whereby the control switch 322a will also bereturned into its pre-setting position shown in Fig. 12. In saidpre-setting position the lifting circuit 323a is pre-set for completionby the selector switch [3%. Now, when the operator rocks the secondshipper rod E3011 from the position shown in Fig. 8 into the positionshown in Fig. 9, the torque motor selector switch l34a completes thelifting circuit for the lifting switch 306a causing an operation of thetorque motor [28a for rotation in counterclockwise direction (arrow G),while the lowering switch 309a. for the torque motor 110a remainsclosed. Therefore, only the front guide bar 162a is lifted into theinoperative raised position l62a, while the intermediate guide bar 62aremains in its operative position. Upon lifting of 'the front guide bar162a the warp guides 64a carried by the intermediate guide bar 62abecome accessible for rethreading of the broken warp yarn.

After repair of the broken warp yarn the shipper rod 136a is returnedfrom the position shown in Fig. 9 into the position shown in Fig. 8,whereby the torque motor selector switch l34a interrupting the liftingcircuit 328a for the lifting switch 386a and closing the loweringcircuit 338a for the lowering switch 308a causes a lowering of the frontguide bar 162a into its lower opera-- 14 tive position, so that themachine is ready for re-starting.

If a warp yarn threaded through the eyelet 52a carried by the rear guidebar 58a should break, the operator at first brings the shipper rod 130afrom the position shown in Figs. 7 and 8 into the position shown in Fig.9, and thereafter into the position shown in Fig. 10, whereby the torquemotor selector switch l34a completes at first the lifting circuit forthe lifting switch 306a, causing a lifting of the front guide bar l62aby the torque motor I28a into its raised inoperative position l62a', andcompletes thereafter the lifting circuit for the lifting switch 301acausing a lifting of the intermediate guide bar 62a. by the torque motora into its raised inoperative position 62a', so that the warp guides 52acarried by the rear guide bar 50a become accessible. After theperformance of the necessary repairs and the re-threading of the warpyarn or warp yarns through the eyelet or eyelets of a warp guide or warpguides carried by the rear guide bar 59a, the shipper rod I301; isreturned from the position shown in Fig. 10 through the position shownin Fig. 9 into the position shown in Fig. 8, whereby at first theintermediate guide bar 62a and thereafter the front guide bar |62a arereturned into their lower operative positions, and the machine is readyfor restarting. As the lowering circuits for the lowering switch 398aand for the lowering switch 389a are closed by the selector switch I34ain the position of Fig. 8, the front guide bar lE2a as well as theintermediate guide bar 62a are held in their lower operative positionsby the torque motors H811 and llfla respectively.

The control system shown in Fig. l2also includes three safety features:Firstly, the safety switches 8a and lfifia prevent an operation of thewarp knitting machine by the motor 22a when either the front guide barl62a or the front guide bar liiZa and the intermediate guide bar 62a arein raised inoperative position. Secondly the control switch or safetyswitch 322a prevents a lifting of the guide bars 62a and H521: when themain motor 22a drives the machine. Thirdly, the control switch or safetyswitch 3220!. causes a holding down of the front guide bar [62a and theintermediate guide bar 62a when at the start of the machine the selectorswitch 134a is not exactly in the position shown in Fig. 8 or when themachine is running and the shipper rod lEtia associated with theselector switch l34a is unintentionally rocked.

It is understood that the described lifting of the guide bar or guidebars of a warp knitting machine by the mechanisms and arrangementsaccordin to the invention may also be used for threading all of the warpyarns of the warp beams when the machine shall be made ready foroperation.

I have described preferred embodiments of my invention, but it isunderstood that this disclosure is for the purpose of illustration andthat various omissions or changes in shape, proportion and arrangementof parts, as well as the substitution of equivalent elements for thoseherein shown and described may be made without departing from the spiritand scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

For example, instead of a reversible torque motor, a non-reversibletorque motor could be used for actuating the lifting mechanism of aguide bar; in such a case, the guide bar would be lifted by anenergization of the torque motor,

while upon de-energization of the torque motor the lowering of the guidebar would take place by the action of its own weight, perhaps assistedby the action of a return spring connected with an element of thelifting mechanism.

Furthermore, instead of a torque motor another suitable electricaldevice could be used for actuating the lifting mechanism of a uide bar,for example another type of an electromotor, or an electromagneticdevice.

If desired, the electric control system may also be modified, forexample one or the other safety device could be omitted.

Moreover, if desired, the electric means for actuating the liftingmechanism of a guide bar could be replaced by non-electrical powermeans. For example, a hydraulic or mechanical drive, which may berendered active or inactive by an actuating element readily accessiblefrom any place in front of the warp knitting machine could be used; insuch a case, preferably, the actuating element is in the shape of a rodor bar extending longitudinally of the machine and being arranged forcausing or stopping an operation of the hydraulic or mechanical drive.

What I claim is:

1. In a warp knitting machine the combination of: a rockable guide barshaft, a series of spaced brackets secured to said guide bar shaft, aplurality of guide bars extending longitudinally of the machine, saidguide bars being suspended from said brackets, at least one of saidguide bars being slidably mounted on its associated brackets for liftingmovement from a lower operative end position into an upper inoperativeend position, a lifting mechanism associated with said liftable guidebar for displacing same from one end position into the other one, andcontrollable power means associated with said lifting mechanism foractuating the latter.

2. In a warp knitting machine the combination of: a rockable guide barshaft, a series of spaced brackets secured to said guide bar shaft, aplurality of guide bars extending longitudinally of the machine, saidguide bars being suspended from said brackets, at least one of saidguide bars being slidably mounted on its associated brackets for liftingmovement from a lower operative end position into an upper inoperativeend position, a lifting mechanism associated with said liftable guidebar for displacing same from one end position into the other one,controllable power means associated with said lifting mechanism foractuating the latter, and a manually operable actuating element extendinlongitudinally of the machine, said actuating element being associatedwith said power means for controlling the operation of the latter.

3. In a warp knitting machine the combination of: a rockable guide barshaft, a series of spaced brackets secured to said guide bar shaft, aplurality of guide bars extending longitudinally of the machine, saidguide bars being suspended from said brackets, at least one of saidguide bars being liftable relative to said brackets from a loweroperative position into an upper inoperative position, a liftingmechanism associated with said liftable guide bar for displacing same,and controllable power means associated with said lifting mechanism foractuating the latter, said power means being operable for lifting: andlowering said guide bar, and said power means being operable for holdingsaid guide bar in its lower operative position by the force of theoutput generated by said power means.

4. In a warp knitting machine the combination of: a main drive foroperating the machine, a rockable guide bar shaft, a series of spacedbrackets secured to said guide bar shaft, a plurality of guide barsextending longitudinally of the machine, said guide bars being suspendedfrom said brackets, at least one of said guide bars being liftablerelative to said brackets from a lower operative position into an upperinoperative position, a lifting mechanism associated with said liftableguide bar for displacing same, controllable power means associated withsaid lifting mechanism for actuating the latter, and a safety deviceresponsive to the position of said liftable guide bar and included insaid main drive for disabling the latter when said liftable guide bar isin its inoperative position.

5. In a warp knitting machine the combination of: a main drive foroperating the machine, a rockable guide bar shaft, a series of spacedbrackets secured to said guide bar shaft, 2. plurality of guide barsextending longitudinally of the machine, said guide bars being suspendedfrom said brackets, at least one of said guide bars being liftablerelative to said brackets from a lower operative position into an upperinoperative position, a lifting mechanism associated with said liftableguide bar for displacing same, controllable power means associated withsaid lifting means for actuating the latter, a first safety deviceresponsive to the position of said liftable guide bar and associatedwith said main drive for rendering the latter inoperative when saidliftable guide bar is in its inoperative position, and a second safetydevice responsive to the operation of said main drive and associatedwith said power means for preventing the latter from actuating thelifting mechanism for a lifting of said guide bar when said main driveis in operation for driving the machine.

6. In a warp knitting machine the combination of: a main drive foroperating the machine, a rockable guide bar shaft, a series of spacedbrackets secured to said guide bar shaft, 9. plurality of guide barsextending longitudinally of the machine, said guide bars being suspendedfrom said brackets, at least one of said guide bars being liftablerelative to said brackets from a lower operative position into an upperinoperative position, a lifting mechanism associated with said liftableguide bar for displacing same, controllable power means associated withsaid lifting means for actuating the latter, said power means beingoperable for lifting and lowering said guide bar and for holding same inits lower operative position, and a safety device responsive to theoperation of said main drive and associated with said power means foroperating same to hold said guide bar in its operative position whensaid main drive is in operation for driving themachine.

7'. In a. warp knitting machine the combination of: a main drive foroperating the machine, a rockable guide bar shaft, a series of spacedbrackets secured to said guide bar shaft, a plurality' of guide barsextending longitudinally of the machine, said guide bars being suspendedfrom said brackets, at least one of said guide bars being liftablerelative to said brackets from a lower operative position into an upperinoperative position, a lifting mechanism associated with said iiftableguide bar for displacing same, controllable power means associated withsaid lifting means for actuating the latter, said power means beingoperable for lifting and lowering said guide bar and for holding thelatter in its operative position, settable conditioning means associatedwith said power means for controlling the operation of the latter, and asafety device responsive to the operation of said main drive andassociated with said conditioning means for retaining same in aconditioning position for an operaton of said power means to hold saidguide bar in its lower operative position when said main drive is inoperation for driving the machine.

8. In a warp knitting machine the combination of: a main drive foroperating the machine, a rockable guide bar shaft, a series of spacedbrackets secured to said guide bar shaft, a plurality of guide barsextending longitudinally of the machine, said guide bars being suspendedfrom said brackets, at least one of said guide bars being liftablerelative to said brackets from a lower operative position into an upperinoperative position,,a lifting mechanism associated with said liftableguide bar for displacing same, controllable power means associated withsaid lifting means for actuating the latter, said power means beingoperable-for lifting and lowering said guide bar and for holding thelatter in its operative position, settable conditioning means associatedwith said power means for controlling the operation of the latter, afirst safety device responsive to the position of said liftable guidebar and associated with said main drive for rendering the latterinoperative when said liftable guide bar is in its inoperative position,a second safety device responsive to the operation of said main driveand associated with said conditioning means for preventing aconditioning position thereof for an operation of said power meanscausing a lifting of said guide bar when said main drive is in operationfor driving the machine, and a third safety device responsive to theoperation of said main drive and associated with said conditioning meansfor retaining same in a conditioning positon for an operaton of saidpower means to hold said guide bar in its lower operative position whensaid main drive is in operation for driving the machine.

9. In a warp knitting machine the combination of a rockable guide barshaft, a series of spaced brackets secured to said guide bar shaft, aplurality of guide bars extending longitudinally of the machine, saidguide bars being suspended from said brackets, at least one of saidguide bars being liftable relative to said brackets from a loweroperative position into an upper inoperative position, a liftingmechanism asso-' ciated with said liftable guide bar for displacingsame, electric means associated with said lift ing mechanism foractuating the latter, switch meanselectrically connected with saidelectric means, and a rockable shipper rod extending lon-' gitudinallyof the machine, said shipper rod being associated with said switch meansfor controlling same.

10. In a warp knitting machine the combination of: a rockable guide barshaft, a series of spaced brackets secured to said guide bar shaft, aplurality of guide bars extending longitudinally of the machine, saidguide bars being suspended from said brackets, at least one of saidguide bars being slidably mounted on its associated brackets for liftingmovement from a lower operative end position into an upper inoperativeend position, a lifting mechanism associated with said liftable guidebar for displacing same from one end position into the other one, areversible 18' torque motor associated with said lifting mechanism foractuating the latter so as to lift and lower said guide bar, andlimiting means arranged for cooperation with said lifting mechanism forlimiting end positions thereof against the action of said torque motor.

11. In a warp knitting machine the combination of: a rockable guide barshaft, a series of spaced brackets secured to said guide bar shaft, aplurality of guide bars extending longitudinally of the machine, saidguide bars being suspended from said brackets, at least one of saidguide bars being liftable relative to said brackets from a loweroperative position into an upper inoperative position, a liftingmechanism associated with said liftable guide bar for displacing same,an electric motor associated with said lifting mechanism for actuatingthe latter, switch means electrically connected with said electricmotor, and a rockable shipper rod extending longitudinally of themachine, said shipper rod being associated with said switch means for.controlling same.

12. In a warp knitting machine the combina-i tion of: a rockable guidebar shaft, a series of. spaced brackets secured to said guide barshaft,- a plurality of guide bars extending longitudinally of themachine, said guide bars being suspended from said brackets, at leastone of said guide bars being liftable relative to said brackets from alower operative position into an upper inoperative position, a liftingmechanism associated with said liftable guide bar for displacing same, areversible torque motor associated with said lifting mechanism foractuating the latter so as to lift and lower said guide bar, limitingmeans arranged for cooperation with said lifting mechanism for limitingend positions thereof against the action of said torque motor switchmeans electrically con-1 nected with said torque motor, and a rockableshipper rod extending longitudinally of the machine, said shipper rodbeing associated with said switch means for controlling same.

13. In a warp knitting machine the combina-- tion of a main electromotorfor operating the machine, a rockable guide bar shaft, a series ofspaced brackets secured to said guide bar shaft, a plurality of guidebars extending longitudinally of the machine, said guide bars beingsuspended from said brackets, at least one of said guide bars beingliftable relative to said brackets from' a lower operative position intoan upper inoperative position, a lifting mechanism associated with saidliftable guide bar for displacing same, electric means associated withsaid lifting mechanism for actuating the latter, a safety switch, and amotor circuit including said main electromotor and said safety switch,said safety switch being responsive to the position of said liftableguide bar for interrupting said motor circuit when said liftable guidebar is in its inoperative position.

14. In a warp knitting machine as claimed in claim 13; said liftingmechanism being operatively associated with said safety switch foropening same when said guide bar is in its inoperative position.

15. In a warp knitting machine the combination of a main electromotorfor operating the machine, a rockable guide bar shaft, a series ofspaced brackets secured to said guide bar shaft, a plurality of guidebars extending longitudinally of the machine, said guide bars beingsuspended from said brackets, at least one of said guide bars beingliftable relative to said brackets from a lower operative position intoan upper inoperative position, a lifting mechanism associated with saidliftable guide bar for displacing same, electric means associated withsaid lifting mechanism for actuating the latter, a first switchelectrically connected with said electric means and operable forconnecting same with an electric source so as to cause a lifting of saidguide bar, and a safety switch electrically connected with said firstswitch and responsive to the operation of said main electromotor forpreventing said first switch from connectin said electric means withsaid electric source when said main electrcrnotor is in operation fordriving the machine.

16. In a warp knitting machine the combination of; a main .electromotorfor operating the machine, a rockable guide bar shaft, a series ofspaced brackets secured to said guide bar shaft, a plurality of guidebars extending longitudinally of the machine, said guide bars beingsuspended from said brackets, at least one of said guide bars beingliftable relative to said brackets from :a lower operative position intoan upper inoperative position, a lifting mechanism associated with saidliftable guide bar for displacing same, electric means associated withsaid lifting mechanism for actuating the latter, a first safety switch,a motor circuit including said main electromotor and said first safetyswitch, said first safety switch being responsive to the position ofsaid liftable guide bar for interrupting said motor circuit when saidliftable guide bar is in its inoperative position, a first switchelectrically connected with said electric means and operable forconnecting same with an electric source so as to cause a lifting of saidguide bar, and a second safety switch electrically connected with saidfirst switch and rwponsive to the operation of said main electromotorfor preventing said first switch from connesting said electric meanswith said electric source when said main electrolnotor is in operationfor driving the machine.

17. In a warp knitting machine the combination of a main electromotorfor operating the machine, a rockable guide bar shaft, a series ofspaced brackets secured to said guide bar shaft, a plurality of guidebars extending longitudinally of the machine, said guide bars beingsuspended from said brackets, at least one of said guide bars beingliftable relative to said brackets from a lower operative position intoan upper inoperative position, .a lifting mechanism associated with saidliftable guide bar for displacing same, a reversible auxiliary motorassociated with said lifting mechanism for actuating the latter, saidreversible motor being operable in one direction of rotation for liftingsaid guide bar and being operable in the other direction of rotation forlowering said guide bar and for holding same in its operative position,a first switch electrically connected with said reversible auxiliarymotor and operable for connecting same with an electric source so as tocause a lifting of said guide bar, a second switch electricallyconnected with said reversible auxiliary motor and operable forconnecting same with said electric source so as to cause a. lowering ofsaid guide bar and holding same in its operative position, and a safetyswitch responsive to the operation of said main electromotor andelectrically connected with said second switch for holding same inconnecting position when said main electromotor is in operation fordriving the machine.

18. In a warp knitting machine the combination of: a main electromotorfor operating the machine, a rockable guide bar shaft, a series ofspaced brackets secured to said guide bar shaft; a plurality of guidebars extending longitudinally of the machine, said guide bars beingsuspended from said brackets, at least one of said guide bars beingliftable relative to said brackets from a lower operative position intoan upper inoperative position, a lifting mechanism associated with saidliftable guide bar for displacing same, a reversible auxiliary motorassociated with said lifting mechanism for actuating the latter, saidreversible motor being operable in one direction of rotation for liftingsaid guide bar and being operable in the other direction of rotation forlowering said guide bar and for holding same in its operative position,a first switch electrically connected with said reversible auxiliarymotor and operable for connecting same with an electric source so .as tocause a lifting of said guide bar, a second switch electricallyconnected with said reversible auxiliary motor and operable forconnecting same with said electric source so as to cause a lowering ofsaid guide bar and holding same in its operative position, a firstsafety switch, a motor circuit including said main electromotor and saidfirst safety switch, said first safety switch being responsive to theposition of said liftable guide bar for interrupting said motor circuitwhen said liftable guide bar is in its inoperative position, a secondsafety switch electrically connected with said first switch andresponsive to the operation of said main electromotor for preventingsaid first switch from connecting said electric means with said electricsource when said main motor is in operation for driving the machine, anda third safety switch responsive to the operation of said mainelectromotor and electrically connected with said second switch forholding same in connecting position when said main electromotor is inoperation for driving the machine.

19.. In an electric control system, for use in connection with a warpknitting machine having at least one liftable guide bar, an electricmain motor for machine operation and at least one electrical deviceoperable for guide bar lifting operation, in combination with: anelectric circuit comprising main motor actuating means. means forenergizing said electrical device, and control means responsive to saidactuating means for pro-setting said energizing means to restrainenergization of said electrical device during main motor actuation.

20. In an electric control system, for use in connection with a warpknitting machine having at least one liftable guide bar, an electricmain motor for machine operation and at least one electrical deviceoperable in opposite direction for guide bar lifting and lowering, incombination with; an electric circuit comprising main motor actuatingmeans, means for alternately oppositely energizing said electricaldevice, selecting means for said energizing means to select thedirection of operation of said electrical device, and control meansresponsive to said actuating means for pre-setting said energizing meansto restrain energization of said electrical device in one directionduring main motor actuation.

21. In an electric control system, for use in connection with a warpknitting machine having .at least one liftable guide bar, an electricmain motor for .machine operation and at least one electrical deviceoperable in opposite directions for guide bar lifting and lowering, incombination with: an electric circuit comprising main motor actuatingmeans, means for alternately oppositely energizing said electricaldevice, selecting mean for said energizing means to select the directionof operation of said electrical device, and control means responsive tosaid actuating means for pre-setting said energizing means to restrainenergization of said electrical device in one direction and formaintaining energization of said electrical device in the otherdirection during main motor actuation.

22. In an electric control system, for use in connection with a warpknitting machine having at least one liftable guide bar, an electricmain motor for machine operation and at least one electrical deviceoperable for guide bar lifting, in combination: a prime circuit for saidmotor and for said electrical device interconnected to an electricsource and comprising a normally open main switch movable for connectionof said main motor to said prime circuit, and a lifting switch normallyopen and operable for interconnecting said electrical device to saidprime circuit for guide bar lifting; a starter circuit including asolenoid for said main switch and a manually actuable starter switch foroperation of said solenoid to close said main switch for machineoperation; a lifting circuit including a solenoid for said liftingswitch and being normally interrupted to hold open said lifting switch;an actuating switch manually movable for completing said liftingcircuit; a control switch biased towards a first position of pre-settingsaid lifting circuit for completion by said actuating switch and beingmovable to a second position of interrupting said lifting circuit forrestraining guide bar lifting; and a control circuit connected to saidstarter circuit and including a solenoid for said control switch formovement thereof to said second position during main motor energization.

23. In an electric control system, for use in connection with a warpknitting machine having at least one liftable guide bar, an electricmain motor for machine operation and at least one electrical deviceoperable in opposite directions for guide bar lifting and lowering, incombination: a prime circuit for said motor and for said electricaldevice interconnected to an electric source and comprising a normallyopen main switch movable for connection of said main motor to said primecircuit, a lifting switch normally open and operable for interconnectingsaid electrical device to said prime circuit to operate in one directionfor guide bar lifting, and a lowering switch for interconnecting saidelectrical device to said prime circuit at changed polarity to operatein the opposite direction for guide bar lowering; a starter circuitincluding a solenoid for said main switch and a manually actuablestarter switch for operation of said solenoid to close said main switchfor machine operation; a lifting circuit including a solenoid for saidlifting switch and being normally interrupted to hold open said liftingswitch; a lowering circuit including a solenoid for said loweringswitch; a selector switch manually movable between at least twopositions for alternately completing one among said lifting and loweringcircuits; a control switch biased towards a first position ofpre-setting said lifting circuit for completion by said selector switchand being movable to a second position of interrupting said liftingcircuit for restraining guide bar lifting; and a control circuitconnected to said starter circuit and including a solenoid for saidcontrol switch for movement thereof to said second position during mainmotor energization.

24. In an electric control system, for use in connection with a warpknitting machine having at least one liftable guide bar, an electricmain motor for machine operation and at least one electrical deviceoperable in opposite directions for guide bar lifting and lowering, incombination: a prime circuit for said motor and for said electricaldevice interconnected to an electric source and comprising a normallyopen main switch movable for connection of said main motor to said primecircuit, a lifting switch normally open and operable for interconnectingsaid electrical device to said prime circuit to operate in one directionfor guide bar lifting, and'a lowering switch for interconnecting saidelectrical device to said prime circuit at changedpolarity to operate inthe opposite direction for guide bar lowering, a starter circuitincluding a solenoid for said main switch and a manually actuablestarter switch for operation of said solenoid to close said main switchfor machine operation; a lifting circuit including a solenoid for saidlifting switch and being normally interrupted to hold open said liftingswitch; a lowering circuit including a solenoid for said loweringswitch; a selector switch manually movable between at least twopositions for alternately completing one among said liftingv andlowering circuits; a control switch biased towards a first position ofpre-setting said lifting circuit for completion by said selector switchand being movable to a second position of interrupting said liftingcircuit to restrain guide bar lifting and of simultaneously closing saidlowering, circuit for guide bar lowering; and a control circuitconnected to said starter circuit and in-- eluding a solenoid for saidcontrol switch for movement thereof to said second position during mainmotor energization and for release to return to said first position whensaid main mo-" tor is deenergized.

to a normal operative position, an electric main motor for machineoperation, and at least one reversible torque motor for guide barlifting and lowering, in combination: a prime circuit for. said motorsinterconnected to an electric source and comprising a normally open mainswitch movable for conection of said main motor to said prime circuit. alifting switch normally open and operable for interconnecting saidtorque motor to said prime circuit to rotate in one direction for guidebar lifting, and a lowering switch for interconnecting said torque motorto said prime circuit at changed polarity to rotate in the op-- positedirection for guide bar lowering; a starter circuit including a solenoidfor said main switch and a manually actuable starter switch foroperation of said solenoid to close said main switch for machineoperation; a lifting circuit including a solenoid for said liftingswitch and being normally interrupted to hold open said lifting switch;a lowering circuit including a solenoid for said lowering switch; aselector switch manually movable between at least two positions ofalternately completing one among said lifting;

and lowering circuits; a control switch biased towards a first positionof pre-setting said lifting circuit for completion by said selectorswitch and being movable to a second position of interrupting saidlifting circuit to restrain guide;

bar lifting and of simultaneously closing'said lowering circuit [orguide bar lowering; and a control circuit connected in parallel with aportion of said starter circuit and including a solenoid for saidcontrol switch for movement there of to said second position during mainmotor energization, and for release to return to said first positionwhen said main motor is deeper gized, whereby guide bar lifting can takeplace only at machine standstill and said guide bar will be maintainedin operative position during machine operation.

26. In an electric control system as claimed in claim 22, together with,a normally closed safety switch in said starter circuit, means operableby electrical device, upon energization thereof for guide bar lifting,to open said safety switch.

2'7. In an electric control system, for use in connection with a warpknitting machine hav ing a plurality of iiftable guide bars, andelectric main motor for machine operation, and a plurality of electricaldevices, each associated with a guide bar and operable for liftingthereof, in combination: a prime circuit for said motor and for saidelectrical device, interconnected to an electric source and comprising anormally open main switch movable for connection of said main motor tosaid prime circuit, and a lifting switch for each electrical devicenormally open and operable for interconnecting said electrical device tosaid prime circuit for guide bar lifting; a starter circuit including asolenoid for said main switch and a manually actuable starter switch foroperation of said solenoid to close said main switch for machineoperation; a lifting circuit including a solenoid for each liftingswitch and being normally interrupted to hold open said liftingswitches; an actuating switch manually movable for completing at least aportion of said lilting circuit to lift at least one guide bar; acontrol switch biased towards a first position of pro-setting saidlifting circuit for completion by said actuating switch and beingmovable to a second position of interrupting said lifting circuit forrestraining guide bar lifting; and a control circuit connected to saidstarter circuit and including a solenoid for said control switch formovement thereof to said second position during main motor energization.

28. In an electric control system as claimed in claim 27, together with,at least one normally closed safety switch in said starter circuit, andmeans operable by said electrical devices, upon energization thereof forguide bar lifting, to open said safety switch.

29. In an electric control system for use in connection with a warpknitting machine having a plurality of guide bars each liftable from andlowerable to a normel operative position, an electric main motor formachine operation, and a plurality of reversible torque motors eachassociated with a guide bar and operable for lifting and lowering same,in combination: a prime circuit for said motors interconnected to anelectric source and comprising a normally open main switch movable forconnection of said main motor to said prime circuit, a lifting switchfor each torque motor normally open and operable for interconnectingsaid torque motor to said prime circuit to rotate in one direction forguide bar lifting, and a lowering switch for each torque motor forinterconnecting said torque motor to said prime circuit at changedpolarity to rotate in the opposite direction for guide bar lowering; astarter circuit including a solenoid for said main switch and a manuallyactuable starter switch for operation of said solenoid to close saidmain switch for machine operation; a lifting circuit including brancheshaving each a solenoid for a lifting switch and being normallyinterrupted to hold open said lifting switches, a lowering circuitincluding branches having each a solenoid for a lowering switch; aselector switch manually movable between at least two positions ofalternately completing at least one of the branches of said lifting andlowering circuit, respectively; a com trol switch biased towards a firstposition for presetting said lifting circuit for at least partialcompletion by said selector switch to lift at least one guide bar andbeing movable to a second position of interrupting said lifting circuitto restrain guide bar lifting; and a control circuit connected inparallel with a portion of said starter circuit and including a solenoidfor said control switch for movement thereof to said second positionduring main motor energization.

30. In an electric control system as claimed in claim 29, said machinehaving two guide bars liftable in a predetermined sequence and lowcrablein reversed sequence, said lifting and lowering circuits having each twobranches, said selector switch being movable between three sucoessivepositions for controlling said sequence,

, in the first position of said selector switch both branches of saidlowering circuit being closed, in the intermediate position of saidselector switch one branch of the lifting circuit coordinated with thefirstly liftable guide bar being closed and one branch of the loweringcircuit coordinated with the secondly liftable guide bar being closed,and in the third position of said selector switch both branches of saidlowering circuit being closed.

31. In an electric control system, for use in connection with a warpknitting machine having a plurality of guide bars each liftable from andlowerable to a normal operative position, an electric main motor formachine operation, and a plurality of reversible torque motors eachassociated with a guide bar and operable for lifting and lowering same,in combination: a prime circuit for said motors interconnected to anelectric source and comprising a normally open main switch movable forconnection of said main motor to said prime circuit, a lifting switchfor each torque motor normally open and operable for interconnectingsaid torque motor to said prime circuit to rotate in one direction forguide bar lifting, and a lowering switch for each torque motor forinterconnecting said torque motor to said prime circuit at changedpolarity to rotate in the opposite direction for guide bar lowering; astarter circuit including a solenoid for said main switch and a manuallyactuable starter switch for operation of said solenoid to close saidmain switch for machine operation; a lifting circuit including brancheshaving each a solenoid for a lifting switch and being normallyinterrupted to hold open said lifting switches, a lowering circuitincluding branches having each a solenoid for a lowering switch; aselector switch manually movable between at least two positions ofalternately completing at least one of the branches of said lifting andlowering circuits, respectively; a control switch biased towards a firstposition of pro-setting said lifting circuit for at least partialcompletion by said selector switch to lift at least one guide bar andbeing movable to a second position of inter- 25 rupting said liftingcircuit to restrain guide bar lifting and of simultaneously closing saidlowering circuit for lowering said guide bars; and a control circuitconnected in parallel with a portion of said starter circuit andincluding a-solencid for said control switch for movement thereof tosaid second position during main motor energization, and for release toreturn to said first position when said main motor is deenergized,whereby guide bar lifting can take place only at machine standstill andall of said guide bars will be maintained in operative positionduringmachine operation.

FRITZ LAMBACH.

References Cited in the file of this patent UNITED STATES PATENTS NumberNumber

